5 minute plank vs 5 one minute plank holds

[Anonymous]

Hello. I am currently doing one of those 30 day plank challenges. As I've moved through it I am finding it very challenging. Today was 2:45 but it felt so long! The challenge has the time increasing greatly at this point upto 5 minutes next week which I can't see myself being able to do (no way!).

My question is- how important is it to hold at one time vs coming down for a break or two or even breaking it into parts all at the same time or throughout the day? Would you get the same health benefits if I did 2 minute planks three times a day for a total of 6 minutes or should I just take a break when needed but get through the full 5 minutes as best I can at one time? What should my best strategy be as I move into these times that I can't do?

Thank you!

[Anonymous]

In my experience shorter planks with good form MAJORLY trump a long one, where you're more than likely sacrificing proper form

[Anonymous]

Op here- thank you! How long did it take to actually see some change doing plank? I also do a lot of cardio, but am looking to strengthen my mid section.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:In my experience shorter planks with good form MAJORLY trump a long one, where you're more than likely sacrificing proper form

I agree.

And you're not going to see big changes simply doing planks. You have to get rid of the flab over the stomach muscles to see tone.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:In my experience shorter planks with good form MAJORLY trump a long one, where you're more than likely sacrificing proper form

I agree.

And you're not going to see big changes simply doing planks. You have to get rid of the flab over the stomach muscles to see tone.

I agree with this. However, I DO really see quick results in terms of change in posture and reconnecting to my core when I incorporate planks, both of which certainly have a slimming effect. OP I'm not sure what your body type is so it's hard to say, but keep up the good work! And it bears re-mentioning: if you haven't done some research into proper form / what should be aligned and engaged for planks, you should...it makes a big difference

[Anonymous]

I don't see the point of holding a plank for 5 minutes. I do about 3 minutes of planks at a time - 60 seconds of straight plank, then a quick movement into chaturanga and down dog, then back to plank for 60 seconds, alternating leg and arm lifts. Then chaturanga/down dog again, then 60 more seconds of plank, this time 30 seconds on each side, with leg raised for 15 seconds each side.

[Anonymous]

That's insane to aim for a 5 min plank. More is just more at a certain point, and all at once you are sacrificing form.

[Anonymous]

Who says you have to do 5 minutes at a time? Why don't you drop into plank 2-3 times a day for a couple minutes? I actually think the benefits would be more, not less, because you wouldn't be compromising form. Start the day with a 5-minute series of sun salutations that includes 2 minutes of planks and end it the same way, and maybe sneak in a minute before dinner?